Why 2G has to goWhen 2G launched in 1991, it was a revolution – but today its limitations are obvious. The network can only carry around 0.1 bits of data per second per hertz, compared to 2.4 bits on 4G. Vodafone argues that holding on to such outdated infrastructure slows progress, while shutting it down means more room for services people actually use. Transmitting a gigabyte over 5G can use up to 100 times less energy than on 2G, which makes the newer network both cheaper to run and more sustainable. Vodafone says replacements like NB-IoT and CAT-M are already available, and the company will help customers migrate before the switch-off.